Challenges of democracy and the (de)memorialisation of the June 12, 1993 elections in Nigeria

Abstract

This article explores the complex dynamics and underpinnings of the contested sectional cabal not only saw to the annulment of these elections, but has relentlessly engaged the machinery of the state to foist collective amnesia on the citizenry by memorialising May 29 as 'Democracy Day', instead of June 12. We argue that these actions became necessary as the remembrance and memorialisation of June 12 could have dire implications for the survival and reputation of the cabal. Using the Obasanjo administration (1999 2007) as a case, this article analyses certain critical events to illustrate and buttress its points. We conclude that until there is a national commitment to memorialising June 12, as well as the institutionalisation of the fundamental tenets of democracy embodied in those elections, a civic and democratic ethos among Nigerian civil society will remain elusive.

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“…In Uganda, memorialization efforts have formed part of the country's attempt to uncover the truth about past atrocities in the aftermath of Idi Amin's regime (De Yeaza and Fox 2013). In Nigeria, there were repeated calls for 12 June to be made a national holiday in honor of the late presumed winner of the annulled 12 June 1993 election, Moshood Abiola, by military officials who eventually usurped the democratic order (Ekanade and Odoemene 2012). This clamor was eventually granted by the president Muhammadu Buhari on 2018, who declared the 12th of June every year as Democracy Day.…”

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“…Several individuals were fingered as betrayers of the cause for which Abiola stood, fought and later died. Ekanade and Odoemene (2012) noted that the Abacha military junta, which was lacking in credibility and legitimacy, successfully shopped for two powerful but pliable leaders of the party under which Abiola contested the election, to negotiate away the victory of their party at the June 12 general elections. Even Abiola's running mate (Ambassador Babagana Kingibe) was accused of trading off the mandate by accepting to serve as a minister under the cabinet of the usurper and Abiola's chief tormentor.…”